Responsive image

Chinzombo Camp

Our rating

8/10

Price guide

Highlights

- Luxurious, contemporary camp
- Spa treatments and private plunge pools
- Children's Programme
- Norman Carr Safaris

Speak to someone who's been there

Start planning your tailor-made trip by calling one of our specialists on 855 686 7694

Enquire

Overview

Chinzombo is an ultra-luxurious, modern bush camp set within 60 acres of private land on the game-rich banks of eastern Zambia’s Luangwa River, just outside the South Luangwa National Park boundary. This recently refurbished camp sits on an original Norman Carr camp site, and is run by Norman Carr Safaris, renowned for their world-class guiding and hosting. Suiting guests seeking opulence and tranquillity, this high-end camp offers spectacular wildlife viewing, excellent cuisine, a lovely riverside swimming pool, spa treatments, and total comfort. Open year-round, it is conveniently located a short 45-minute drive from Mfuwe airport.

Set amidst a grove of ancient msikzi trees, the main lounge and dining area sits on white-washed decking overlooking the expansive, game-rich plains and riverbank. The camp’s impressive bespoke architecture boasts ultra-modern open plan spaces, whilst the décor retains a natural and comfortable feel, with leather trunks, copper gas lamps, and black and white photographs alluding to its rich safari history. Sumptuous seating areas, a well-stocked bar, and a covered dining area also feature; though meals are more often than not served beneath the stars. There’s a fire pit surrounded by cushioned benches where breakfast is cooked in the mornings, and where guests gather after dinner to swap stories of the day’s adventures.

The accommodation consists of just six incredibly spacious canvas villas with contemporary facilities. Each villa comes equipped with king-sized double or twin beds, along with air conditioning which is particularly welcome during the intense October to November heat. All villas have large ensuite bathrooms containing a shower, free-standing bathtub, and twin basins, and boast large outdoor decks with private plunge pools overlooking the Luangwa River. A mini-bar, tea and coffee station, numerous comfortable chairs, a writing desk, and Wi-Fi connection completes each room.

Safari activities at Chinzombo are privately and expertly guided, ensuring maximum flexibility for each party. The main focus is on day and night game drives, although some walking safaris are also included. These safari excursions make the most of the private, direct access to the Mfuwe area, one of the most game-rich zones of the South Luangwa National Park. Although the game viewing is exhilarating, and often packed with predator action, note that sightings will usually be shared with a number of other vehicles. A visit during the January to May 'emerald' season brings less crowding and slightly lower prices. Although access to some areas may be restricted due to the rains, visitors during this time can expect incredible bird spotting, and abundant sightings of baby animals.

Children of all ages are welcome at Chinzombo, although private activities will usually need to be booked at additional cost. There is one family unit containing two bedrooms, and an engaging children's programme featuring a village visit, an 'art safari', and short walks in the area surrounding the camp. Parents should note that children under the age of 12 are not permitted on walking safaris in the National Park, and that all children must remain under constant adult supervision.

What customers are saying after travelling with Tourdust

Average Rating

based on 534 reviews

(5.00/5)

  • I was also just about to email you to thank you and the team for arranging yet again, another wonderful experience.

    Mount Kenya was spectacular and wild - I think I prefer it to Kili in many ways. The entire support team was professional, friendly and all round fantastic in making sure that we were safe, well fed and well looked after. In particular, we would commend Peter the guide as well as Paul one of the porters who doubled-up as his deputy on summit day. Our route was often shrouded in mist and rain that rapidly gathered in the valleys and moorlands, and we were very impressed at how Peter managed to navigate us safely through all of that notwithstanding. In addition, we loved learning about the history of Mount Kenya from him in the evenings. And ofcourse, I was blown away by the lovely birthday surprise at the end complete with balloons and a delicious cake that had journeyed with us from day 1. One thing we might recommend because of the sudden change in weather (it would sometimes get extremely cold and wet) is for the equipment list to be a little bit more detailed in terms of its recommendations e.g. layers to be moisture-wicking, walking boots be waterproof, doubling up on socks to avoid blisters etc.

    El Karama is a beautiful conservancy and the lodge a true labour of love. Great hospitality in a relaxed environment. Delicious, fresh food. We enjoyed the drives, even if we didn't see much wildlife as the heavens opened on us for the last two outings. However, since it was very much geared towards families, I am not sure if I would stay again without kids. That said, I think it was perfect for a 3d/2n stay post mountain, and a much better choice than flying to the masai mara given the limited time we had.

    Our transits were smooth. Samuel the driver was always on time, drove safely and kept the vehicle clean.

    So it was a brilliant experience and one which I certainly will cherish for some time to come. It was great to work with you for a third time, and I certainly hope it won't be the last

    MissingJuhae C reviewing Mount Kenya Sirimon Naro Moru Trek on 01 March 2024

  • Thank you, we had an absolute wonderful time, and everything was well-planned and as described. Carla was crying on the day of our departure from Ants Nest, she didn’t want to go home and for it all to end, and when I asked how much longer she would want to stay, she responded “four weeks”

    MissingLars B reviewing Best of South Africa for Families on 01 March 2024

  • We had the most amazing time. It exceeded all my hopes of what the trip would be. The guides, the hotels - everything was of such a wonderful quality. Thank you for organizing everything. I will absolutely recommend Tourdust and use you again.

    MissingClaudia L reviewing Luxury Desert Holiday on 11 January 2024

+
See more reviews

Decisions...

Stop searching and speak to someone who knows.

Enquire Now